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Flames add Grizzlies as affiliate

by
Staff Writer
/ Calgary Flames

Utah Grizzlies Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations Kevin Colley announced today that the team has signed an agreement with the Calgary Flames to go along with their current affiliation with the New York Islanders.

As part of the agreement, the Grizzlies will join the AHL’s Abbotsford, British Columbia Heat in the Flames development program. Pursuant to this agreement, the Grizzlies will be provided with up to four players from the Flames organization.

"When the opportunity presented itself, we were eager to align with Calgary and Abbotsford," said Colley. "Working with them will add some additional young talent to our hockey club and add another direct option for our current players to aspire to. We are looking forward to having their prospects join our team."

"Utah presents us with a great opportunity to monitor the development of some of our young talent in an ideal community and hockey environment," said Flames General Manager Darryl Sutter. "Our previous relationship with Salt Lake City; its proximity; our familiarity with the coaching staff; and the organization’s record of success, all contribute to making our agreement a desirable one."

"Our new affiliation gives the Grizzlies another talented organization to develop players for in a positive winning environment," said Grizzlies CEO Kevin Bruder. "We are proud to call them our partners and look forward to a great relationship."

The Grizzlies open the regular season one month from tonight on October 16 in Las Vegas against the Flames former ECHL affiliate. The home opening weekend is Friday and Saturday, October 23 and 24 when the Grizzlies will host Idaho at the E-Center.

Fast Facts:The Flames were aligned with the ECHL’s Las Vegas Wranglers from 2003-2009.

Seven Las Vegas Wranglers have gone on to the NHL, including six who made their debuts in 2008-2009.

Calgary had an affiliation agreement with the former Salt Lake Golden Eagles from 1984-1993.

Former Grizzlies forward Frederic Sjostrom (2004-2005) signed a contract to play with the Flames on July 1, 2009.

This marks the first time since the 2003-2004 season and the fourth season in team history that the Grizzlies have had a dual affiliation.